| Author | Content |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
June 16, 2011 7:37 AM Post #8633917
| It's hard to believe that the new season has begun. We're only two weeks into winter. The Ospreys have been bringing sticks to the nest over the last few days and both adult birds, known to us as Big Hook and Dad, have been spending a lot of time at the nest. Yesterday, I received a call from the mysterious Madame X, who lives overlooking the nest, to say that mating was taking place - frequently.
I went to the nest this afternoon and wasn't disappointed. Although I didn't see her I could hear Whopper, the single surviving Osprey young from the 2010 season, calling from a tree nearby and shortly thereafter, Big Hook and Dad arrived on the nest and started mating. It was all over within a few seconds. Big Hook then flew up onto the right hand branch, where she remained until I left at about 4.45pm and Dad flew straight down to the bay and out of sight.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
June 16, 2011 7:39 AM Post #8633919
| I think they have been observed mating in early winter in years gone by, but this is certainly the earliest I've seen it.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
June 16, 2011 7:44 AM Post #8633926
| Dad was back in just over three minutes with a fish. He's a very healthy lad.
For anyone is just joining us, you may be interested in seeing how last season progressed. It certainly wasn't without its dramas. Here's a link to the last thread. http://davesgarden.com/community/forums/t/1150786/
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
June 16, 2011 7:47 AM Post #8633928
| The sun is only on the nest for a few minutes during the afternoon, so a lot of the shots are taken when it's in deep shade. Here's Big Hook placing a stick into the nest on May 29th.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
June 16, 2011 7:49 AM Post #8633930
| Dad rearranging sticks a couple of days ago. Taken from way down below the nest.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
June 16, 2011 7:50 AM Post #8633931
| "Hmmm, no, I think over here is better".
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
June 16, 2011 7:53 AM Post #8633933
|
I don't know how much longer the nest is going to be visible from the small section on the path below. The foliage is growing very fast. To take this shot, I had to time it when the wind blew the leaves on either side out of the way for a second. Again, this was from a couple of days ago.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
June 16, 2011 7:56 AM Post #8633942
|
The sun was on Big Hook for a few minutes this afternoon.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
June 16, 2011 7:58 AM Post #8633946
| I'll finish tonight with one more shot of Big Hook preening.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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ducbucln
Kelseyville, CA (Zone 8b)
June 16, 2011 9:59 AM Post #8634152
| Just spectacular, every one of them. I'm so happy to see this pair beginning to mate. Thank you to Madame X for letting you know the news and thanks to you for starting us off with such exciting photos! |
pelletory
Marlton, NJ
June 16, 2011 10:23 AM Post #8634191
| Excellent shots Margaret!
The couple are looking great! |
irisMA
South Hamilton, MA
June 16, 2011 4:44 PM Post #8634772
| thank you to all the osprey friends for keeping us in touch. |
Lily_love
Central, AL (Zone 7b)
June 16, 2011 5:53 PM Post #8634930
| It's wonderful the new season has begun. Thanks Margaret, and Madame X. |
burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB (Zone 4a)
June 16, 2011 8:15 PM Post #8635244
| Another exciting even happening, woohoo. Thanks to the mysterious informant, for keeping an eye on the couple. And to our reporter. |
nanny_56
Putnam County, IN (Zone 5b)
June 17, 2011 5:42 PM Post #8637242
| Exquisite shot of Big Hook, Margaret!! |
GrannyGrunt
Mount Pleasant Mills, PA (Zone 5a)
 June 17, 2011 6:02 PM Post #8637286
| Very nice, Margaret. So, Dad went for some food after mating--healthy choice; much healthier than having a smoke! LOL
Cannot believe the season has started already. Yippee! |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
June 17, 2011 6:12 PM Post #8637307
| Thank you all. Wouldn't it be exciting if we had a successful multiple hatching this year?
I spent an hour or so down there yesterday. Dad was on the low branch with a fish, Big Hook was on the right hand branch with a fish and Whopper was on her preferred branch under the nest. Big Hook made some half-hearted protest sounds when Whopper flew in, but there is no sign that the parents are trying to chase her away. I don't know if that happens in Osprey world.
I thought I was going to see some more action, when Dad flew off after finishing his fish and flew back in within five minutes, but he'd actually gone and caught himself another fish. He must be expending a lot of energy.
Here's Whopper.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
June 17, 2011 6:15 PM Post #8637317
| LOL, GG. I didn't see them mating yesterday. He finished one fish and immediately went off to catch another.
After she'd finished her own fish, Big Hook flew off and was back within minutes to do a bit of stick rearrangement on the nest.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Lily_love
Central, AL (Zone 7b)
June 17, 2011 6:25 PM Post #8637342
| Lot of activity going on there Margaret. Whopper is a beautiful bird! |
burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB (Zone 4a)
June 17, 2011 8:05 PM Post #8637537
| I'm also wishing for multiples successful chicks, this year. It will be interesting to watch. what will happen at the nest this year. |
gardenpom
Melbourne, FL
June 18, 2011 3:48 AM Post #8637867
| I'm still holding a grudge against Whopper for her treatment of her sibling. I hope this years hatchlings get along better. |
Mrs_Ed
Whiteside County, IL (Zone 5a)
June 18, 2011 5:37 PM Post #8639045
| awww, don't hold a grudge, she's just doing what ospreys do.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
June 18, 2011 7:02 PM Post #8639192
| Yes, there really was no malice in Whopper's actions. It was pure instinct. After the other chick was accidentally kicked to the other side of the nest and perished, the size difference between Whopper and the last hatchling was so great that the little one was unable to put up any resistance. Funny thing is, of the three chicks I've observed, Whopper would be the most placid.
What's not to love about this?
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Mrs_Ed
Whiteside County, IL (Zone 5a)
June 18, 2011 7:19 PM Post #8639233
| haha. The Doo still Cracks me up! what a pretty bird.
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Lily_love
Central, AL (Zone 7b)
June 18, 2011 7:43 PM Post #8639263
| She's too cute. It's hard not to love. Forgiveness is accepting what's, that doesn't mean we forget. Hope for the better outcome in the future. Forgiveness is a process, it doesn't happen in any chronological way. I'm looking forward for healing and joy of celebrating the beauty of life. And move on... |
irisMA
South Hamilton, MA
June 18, 2011 8:12 PM Post #8639311
| I'd sue the hairdresser. |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
June 18, 2011 8:20 PM Post #8639324
| irisMA wrote:I'd sue the hairdresser.
That is sooooo funny! |
gardenpom
Melbourne, FL
June 19, 2011 6:05 AM Post #8639775
| Amazing shot, Margaret. |
burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB (Zone 4a)
June 19, 2011 10:38 AM Post #8640266
| LOL , IrisMa, I kinda love that hairdo. |
nanny_56
Putnam County, IN (Zone 5b)
June 19, 2011 3:43 PM Post #8640820
| LOL irisMA...good one! |
GrannyGrunt
Mount Pleasant Mills, PA (Zone 5a)
June 19, 2011 7:05 PM Post #8641216
| Just love that doo. |
LEW_TEX
Cleburne, TX (Zone 8a)
June 19, 2011 7:29 PM Post #8641269
| All pics are really special you are so lucky to be able to watch everything as it happens thanks for taking us along with you.
LEW |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
June 19, 2011 8:55 PM Post #8641454
| Thanks GP. That shot was taken several months ago. It never fails to make me laugh.
Hi Lew. Thanks. I agree, I am incredibly fortunate having the access that I have. And it's a pleasure to be able to share it with everyone here. |
huggergirl
Columbia City, IN (Zone 5b)
June 20, 2011 5:30 AM Post #8641916
| gosh was just thinking about this...Yay |
ducbucln
Kelseyville, CA (Zone 8b)
June 21, 2011 2:00 PM Post #8645224
| Oh my, that photo of Whopper's "do" is just priceless Margaret. I, too, hope that more than one chick survives. That nest looks wonderful. |
irisMA
South Hamilton, MA
June 21, 2011 4:53 PM Post #8645535
| Does the nest seem deeper this year? |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
June 21, 2011 5:16 PM Post #8645582
|
I'm glad you found the thread, Tamara.
It really is funny, isn't it Duc? I remember it was such a hot, windy day.
Iris, I haven't been to the nest for a few days and even though they've both been bringing sticks, it hasn't appeared noticeably deeper to me. I'll have a better look when I go next - which may be this afternoon. I'll brave the 21C winter chill. LOL |
Burd_Fotos
Sandusky, OH
June 22, 2011 12:18 AM Post #8646209
| Beautiful shots Margaret and told as only you can tell it...love the doo shot! |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
June 22, 2011 5:20 AM Post #8646359
| Thanks, Burd, and welcome back.
I went to the nest this afternoon. There's a brief period just after 4pm when parts of the nest are lit by the sun, but you can almost guarantee that if there's a bird on the best, it will move so it's in shadow. Dem's da breaks. Big Hook was on the nest from when I got there at 3pm. I didn't see or hear either Dad or Whopper (if Whopper is still around).
Iris, even though they've been adding sticks to the nest, it seems as if they are just randomly placed at present and they don't seem to be actively working on making the nest deeper. I think there'll still be fun and games on the nest before they get down to the business of building up the sides and constructing the nest cup.
Big Hook went over to one long, spindly stick out from the edge of the nest and seemed to be trying to nip the end off. Her neck was quite stretched.
Of course, her head was in the shade.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
June 22, 2011 5:21 AM Post #8646363
| .. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
June 22, 2011 5:22 AM Post #8646366
| Swan Osprey 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
June 22, 2011 5:23 AM Post #8646368
| ... 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
June 22, 2011 5:25 AM Post #8646371
| From where I was, I couldn't see the low path, but Big Hook's reaction was an indicator that there was someone down there.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB (Zone 4a)
June 23, 2011 6:14 PM Post #8650052
| Glad the trees aren't obstructing, your view of the nest. Your getting some really great shots. |
GrannyGrunt
Mount Pleasant Mills, PA (Zone 5a)
June 23, 2011 7:54 PM Post #8650360
| Nice shots Margaret. I really like the "swan" osprey. LOL |
pelletory
Marlton, NJ
June 24, 2011 3:42 AM Post #8650837
| She is gorgeous!
Great shots Margaret! |
LEW_TEX
Cleburne, TX (Zone 8a)
June 24, 2011 5:19 PM Post #8652493
| How far away are you from the nest ? Really great shots.
LEW |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
June 24, 2011 5:33 PM Post #8652518
| Burn, at this time of year, when the sun is so far north, I've been taking the shots to exploit the angle during the very brief times when the nest is lighted. Unfortunately (for photographers) the living part of the nest tree is thriving and it is becoming increasingly difficult to see them.
Thanks, GG. She went to that same stick a couple of times and was trying to nip or twist the end off, but it was just outside what whe could do without going over the edge of the nest.
Thanks, Pelle. She is a beautiful bird.
Thanks, Lew. I'd be about 80-90' from the nest. When I take shots from down on the low path, it's about 60'.
I went to the nest yesterday afternoon for about an hour and a half. I saw one Osprey fly below the nest, but otherwise, there was no activity. |
ducbucln
Kelseyville, CA (Zone 8b)
June 28, 2011 11:53 AM Post #8660138
| That swan look is "priceless" and I love that straight on stare you're getting in the last shot. I hope everyone is starting to think of names for the future little ones, or is that bad luck?
Great photos Margaret. |
LEW_TEX
Cleburne, TX (Zone 8a)
June 29, 2011 10:38 AM Post #8662137
| Margaret, are you still using your 40D and what lens are you using to get the great shots of the osprey?
LEW |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
June 29, 2011 4:57 PM Post #8662802
| Thanks, duc. I don't know if it's bad luck, but I think usually the bird's characteristics or circumstances dictate the name.
Hi LEW. Yes I've still got the 40D. Depending on what area around the nest I'm going to, I use the 400mm 5.6, which I can hand hold, and use most of the time. If I'm going to be watching activity at the nest itself, rather than try to get flight shots, then I'll use the 500mm f4, which is a gorgeous lens, but I have to use the tripod. The whole set-up is really heavy for me (I'm a bit of a squirt), so it's not easy to move from one spot to the other. I'm thinking of a new camera body, something with a higher ISO capacity.
I haven't been to the nest for several days because of the weather, but Madame X reports frequent matings. Whopper is still around, spending time on one of the trees outside her place. We're expecting a major front through today, so it doesn't look good for going this afternoon. |
Mrs_Ed
Whiteside County, IL (Zone 5a)
June 29, 2011 5:40 PM Post #8662878
| I may have a camera body that I can drop kick over to you.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
June 29, 2011 6:39 PM Post #8662967
| Oh goody. |
burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB (Zone 4a)
June 29, 2011 8:29 PM Post #8663236
| If you can use the 400mm hand held, with those kinda shots, you are amazingly steady with your whole composure. I don't consider that a squirt at all :) I would definitely need a tripod for a 400mm, and up. |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
June 29, 2011 8:43 PM Post #8663259
| Ha ha, Burn. The 400mm is lighter than the 300mm. There's an even lighter weight Canon 400mm lens, that's faster and also has image stabilisation, which my 400mm lens doesn't have. The new 400mm costs about a squillion dollars, though. I'm usually sitting and use my knees to steady myself when I hand hold the 400mm.
Here's the reason I won't be going to the nest today.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB (Zone 4a)
June 29, 2011 9:14 PM Post #8663309
| I didn't know that about the 400mm weighing less than the 300mm. Wish I had the squillion dollars for that new 400mm lens. :(
That storm covers a large area!!! Keep safe, hope nothing bad happens to you or anybody else, while it's going through. |
GrannyGrunt
Mount Pleasant Mills, PA (Zone 5a)
July 1, 2011 6:00 PM Post #8666971
| How much is a squillion dollars?
LOL Marna. |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
July 1, 2011 6:42 PM Post #8667044
| Twice as much as a gazillion. |
huggergirl
Columbia City, IN (Zone 5b)
July 2, 2011 3:37 AM Post #8667435
| Lens envy A gain ...LOL...Id better get that lottery ticket today... |
Mrs_Ed
Whiteside County, IL (Zone 5a)
July 2, 2011 6:45 AM Post #8667654
| Speaking of Lens envy… 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Lily_love
Central, AL (Zone 7b)
July 2, 2011 7:04 AM Post #8667692
| Hah, I want to befriend that photographer. Just wanna try my hands on those lens. lol |
Mrs_Ed
Whiteside County, IL (Zone 5a)
July 2, 2011 9:07 AM Post #8667894
| you ain't the only one, sister! Remember how Margaret thought about pushing Pete over the bank? Hmmm, notice no one was around this guy… I could have been really naughty and konked him on the head. ;-)
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Lily_love
Central, AL (Zone 7b)
July 2, 2011 11:18 AM Post #8668097
| ROFL Marna. We're something else. lol |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
July 2, 2011 4:42 PM Post #8668580
| And have you noticed that Pete hasn't been around? |
Lily_love
Central, AL (Zone 7b)
July 2, 2011 4:53 PM Post #8668593
| Oh my world. lol Pete, come and set us straight. lol |
huggergirl
Columbia City, IN (Zone 5b)
July 3, 2011 2:36 AM Post #8669100
| how fast can you run...LOL..thats a big lens...I just wish I could shoot good photos with my Pocket camera..having problems ???? cant figure it out,all my photos are washed out ,like over exposure...Got the book out..LOL |
Mrs_Ed
Whiteside County, IL (Zone 5a)
July 3, 2011 4:54 PM Post #8670356
| Oh yes, Pete has not been around and someone has a new 500 mm lens. mmmmmmmm
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Lily_love
Central, AL (Zone 7b)
July 3, 2011 5:05 PM Post #8670379
| Mmmmmmmmm, ummmmmmm! Tsk, tsk. lol |
huggergirl
Columbia City, IN (Zone 5b)
July 4, 2011 5:34 AM Post #8671088
| = )
|
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
July 8, 2011 10:18 PM Post #8681428
| I went to the nest this morning and hours later, I am still trying to warm up. It was FREEZING! I haven't been there for over a week because we really are in the grip of what is, for us, a severe cold snap. Big Hook and Dad were on the nest, both separately and together. I didn't see them mating during the couple of hours I was there. I did, however, see Whopper, who is now more the 9 months old. Whopper was soaring in the strong wind, squealing all the while, as Dad (on the left), and Big Hook watched on. Only one shot worth posting. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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pelletory
Marlton, NJ
July 9, 2011 1:40 AM Post #8681476
| Their a beautiful couple. Lovely shot Margaret! |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
July 9, 2011 1:41 AM Post #8681478
| Thanks, Pelle and good morning.
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huggergirl
Columbia City, IN (Zone 5b)
July 9, 2011 3:21 AM Post #8681513
| Great shot Margaret,we just read in the paper Bald Eagles are making a strong comeback here in indiana,over a 100 nests..Lucky for us its not a bad drive to go watch them on the river.. |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
July 9, 2011 3:37 AM Post #8681524
| Thats such good news, Tamara. I hope you get to see them frequently. |
huggergirl
Columbia City, IN (Zone 5b)
July 9, 2011 4:03 AM Post #8681541
| I forgot to tell you to stay warm..Or we will for you.. going to be a scorcher today...actually there have been sightings right here in our little county,in a housing addition, appropriately named Eagle Glen.No nests Yet. |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
July 9, 2011 4:51 AM Post #8681589
| Thanks for the "warm" wishes, Tamara. I'd rather have the cold weather than the endless heat.
Eagle Glen is a lovely name for a housing estate.
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Lily_love
Central, AL (Zone 7b)
July 9, 2011 5:26 AM Post #8681620
| Lovely pix of the couple Margaret. Hi Tamara, it's very very hot here too. |
burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB (Zone 4a)
July 9, 2011 8:18 AM Post #8681891
| Gorgeous shot of the couple, Margaret!!! |
duckmother
North Little Rock, AR (Zone 7b)
July 9, 2011 9:40 AM Post #8682041
| I am so glad to see the happy couple is still happy ;o)) Lovely shot, Mags! |
ducbucln
Kelseyville, CA (Zone 8b)
July 9, 2011 10:16 AM Post #8682088
| What a gorgeous photo of mom and dad Margaret. You can just see their pride as they're watching their Whopper enjoying herself above them. Well done.
I do hope it will warm up for you. |
nanny_56
Putnam County, IN (Zone 5b)
July 9, 2011 10:35 AM Post #8682122
| Gorgeous shot!! |
GrannyGrunt
Mount Pleasant Mills, PA (Zone 5a)
July 10, 2011 7:16 PM Post #8684941
| Great shot of the couple Margaret.
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Burd_Fotos
Sandusky, OH
July 11, 2011 10:59 AM Post #8686044
| Dad and Big Hook look great Margaret! and yes I wish I had a squillion dollars also.. or just a gazillion. lol |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
July 18, 2011 6:22 AM Post #8699099
| I went to the nest four days ago. I heard Whopper, although didn't see her. Dad and Big Hook were busy at the nest a couple of times whilst I was there. Of course, when the nest was lit by the most exquisite light, they were both off somewhere, but as sure as eggs, as soon as the nest was in full shadow, there was activity. I've played around with this image to extract some detail. Not good, but you'll get the idea. They were very vocal.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
July 18, 2011 6:25 AM Post #8699105
| There wasn't a breath of wind and the occasional boat passing by made the most beautiful patterns in the water. I love this for the water, rather than for Big Hook on Dad's favourite branch below the nest.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
July 18, 2011 6:26 AM Post #8699108
| Wing wave.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
July 18, 2011 6:30 AM Post #8699117
| Last one for now. Gorgeous Big Hook.
It may be possible to go to the nest tomorrow afternoon, but we're actually expecting several days of rain. I'll go if it's not raining at 4pm, which gives a narrow window of opportunity for beautiful light, I'll head off down there.
Oh, BTW, we don't mention the football to Madame X
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Lily_love
Central, AL (Zone 7b)
July 18, 2011 7:00 AM Post #8699179
| What's terrific photos of the lovely couple Margaret! Football? Ummm just say hi to Madame X for us from the US. lol |
nanny_56
Putnam County, IN (Zone 5b)
July 18, 2011 7:06 AM Post #8699192
| Such a stunning beauty... If Big Hook only knew how much we all admire her! |
pelletory
Marlton, NJ
July 18, 2011 8:58 AM Post #8699404
| Gorgeous shots Margaret! |
Little_things
Port Elizabeth
South Africa (Zone 10a)
July 18, 2011 9:00 AM Post #8699410
| Great shot Margaret - I see another saga is on its way - wonder how this series will end. |
burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB (Zone 4a)
July 18, 2011 7:41 PM Post #8700777
| Aww so nice, to see activity again, lovely photos. |
LEW_TEX
Cleburne, TX (Zone 8a)
July 18, 2011 7:58 PM Post #8700813
| Great pics makes me think I'm looking at N G magazine you are just as good as they are thanks again.
LEW |
huggergirl
Columbia City, IN (Zone 5b)
July 19, 2011 4:20 AM Post #8701138
| great photos Margaret,love them |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
July 19, 2011 5:03 AM Post #8701196
| Thanks, everyone for your lovely comments.
LEW, I'm flattered that you think they're that good.
Rian, I also wonder what this season will bring. Lets hope it's drama-free and they hatch and raise more than one chick.
I did go to the nest late this afternoon as the weather was simply gorgeous. Once again, I heard Whopper in the trees below Madame X's place, but didn't see her. Usually the offspring are well and truly gone by April or May and here we are, towards the end of July and she's still here. It will be interesting to see just how long she stays or is tolerated. The nest is not left unattended for long and although there was no mating during the hour that I was there, Dad did do a couple of flamboyant fly-pasts with a fish before he presented it to Big Hook, who took it from him as if she'd been starved for weeks. The light was exquisite. Just a couple of shots to share with you. It's inconsiderate of these ospreys to focus on the nest as they're about to land, rather than gaze at the camera and give eye contact and a smile. this is Big Hook.
It has just started raining and they're predicting storms tomorrow (yikes) and rain for the next few days, but I'll go to the nest if there are breaks between showers and hopefully will catch up with Pete (Unsteady).
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
July 19, 2011 5:04 AM Post #8701197
| Darling Dad at the rear, having just dropped the fish off to Big Hook.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Lily_love
Central, AL (Zone 7b)
July 19, 2011 5:18 AM Post #8701208
| Quoting: It's inconsiderate of these ospreys to focus on the nest as they're about to land, rather than gaze at the camera and give eye contact and a smile. Abosolutely! Where is the Osprey's maner these days? Hehehehehehe.
Hah, if Whopper stays around 'home' maybe we'll be so fortunate enough to see her raising her own offsprings in a couple of years? Now, that's not to say I'm asking too much, am I? ROFL. Say hi to Pete, please Margaret and Madame X too if you see her.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
July 19, 2011 5:30 AM Post #8701223
| It's really interesting, Kim, that Whopper is still around. I think we can assume, with a good degree of accuracy that it is her (If she is indeed a female - hope that makes sense). In two weeks time, she will be 10 months old.
I had a look at the other nest today to see if there was any activity. I didn't have my binoculars, but could see an osprey perched near the nest at the top of the Norfolk Island Pine (this is the nest where the male who was close to death had been successfully rehabilitated and released several months ago and the female rejected him upon his return). I'll keep an eye out to what's happening there. I have no idea if the bird I saw today was male or female.
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duckmother
North Little Rock, AR (Zone 7b)
July 19, 2011 2:32 PM Post #8702198
| Mags, the pix are stunning! I am very excited about this years adventures! |
burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB (Zone 4a)
July 19, 2011 5:38 PM Post #8702516
| So am I... Nice capture of the mating ritual, which signal the start of the new nesting. yippee! Love, love, the one of gorgeous Big Hook standing on the tip of the branch with wings spread out! |
ducbucln
Kelseyville, CA (Zone 8b)
July 21, 2011 12:56 PM Post #8706527
| Your photos couldn't get any sharper Margaret-they're all just breathtaking. Wow! |
GrannyGrunt
Mount Pleasant Mills, PA (Zone 5a)
July 22, 2011 4:55 AM Post #8708041
| Wonderful pictures Margaret! |
huggergirl
Columbia City, IN (Zone 5b)
July 23, 2011 4:22 AM Post #8710224
| Great Shots margaret,been thinking about you during our Heat wave 97 and heat index 107...Holy Moly ...its hot |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
July 26, 2011 8:53 PM Post #8717520
| Thanks, everyone. It will be interesting to see how this pans out.
I went to the nest yesterday afternoon for the first time in a week, due to the weather. Both birds are busy reconstructing the nest and they are really making up for the mistakes made last year, when they barely bothered with a nest cup, which had tragic results. The nest cup is so deep, that each bird almost vanishes into it when they're making adjustments.
I don't know how these shots will post. I'm trying something a bit different as some of my photos recently have resulted in the bird's dark feathers looking far too cinnamon coloured. The blue background is the river, not the sky.
Big Hook surrounded by material for the nest cup.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
July 26, 2011 8:54 PM Post #8717525
| With a beakful.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
July 26, 2011 8:57 PM Post #8717530
| Dad had flow by with a Black Bream and took it to his favourite branch below the nest, where he ate most of the head before taking it to her on the nest.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
July 26, 2011 8:58 PM Post #8717532
| Big Hook flies off with the fish and Dad remains to take up duties on the nest.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
July 26, 2011 9:00 PM Post #8717535
| Dad with a beak full of nesting material.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
July 26, 2011 9:01 PM Post #8717537
| Deciding where he'll put it.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
July 26, 2011 9:02 PM Post #8717539
| Last one for today. Big Hook took the fish down to Dad's branch to eat it. It's a truly ghastly end for the fish.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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BeaHive
Dallas, OR (Zone 8a)
July 26, 2011 9:05 PM Post #8717546
| Wonderful series of pictures. The nest looks like it will be very cozy . |
duckmother
North Little Rock, AR (Zone 7b)
July 26, 2011 9:08 PM Post #8717550
| Great shots! They really did learn from last year...I am sooo glad. Poor fish...we will say it was already dead when Dad got it ;o) |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
July 26, 2011 9:25 PM Post #8717569
| Thanks, BeaHive.
Yes, Kim, I have to keep reminding myself that these Ospreys are doing what Ospreys have done for millions of years and unlike man, don't kill for pleasure. They only kill as an immediate source of food. (But I still find it difficult to watch).
I just discovered I hadn't posted this one of Dad watching a hawk fly overhead.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Little_things
Port Elizabeth
South Africa (Zone 10a)
July 26, 2011 10:06 PM Post #8717641
| Great shots Margaret - you cab really see the attentive look on dad's face with the hawk. |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
July 26, 2011 10:10 PM Post #8717649
| Thanks, Rian. They never go after hawks, they just keep a close watch on their passage. |
GrannyGrunt
Mount Pleasant Mills, PA (Zone 5a)
July 27, 2011 5:14 AM Post #8717986
| Wonderful pictures Margaret. These birds continue to amaze me. Just fantastic. Love the shot of Dad deciding where to put the beak full of nesting material and Mom eating the fish. Glad the nest is being built nice and deep this year. |
nanny_56
Putnam County, IN (Zone 5b)
July 27, 2011 6:05 AM Post #8718052
| GrannyGrunt wrote:Wonderful pictures Margaret. These birds continue to amaze me. Just fantastic. Love the shot of Dad deciding where to put the beak full of nesting material and Mom eating the fish. Glad the nest is being built nice and deep this year.
Yup! |
Lily_love
Central, AL (Zone 7b)
July 27, 2011 6:27 AM Post #8718084
| I'd say ditto to GG as well. Fab. pics. Margaret. |
burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB (Zone 4a)
July 27, 2011 3:16 PM Post #8719307
| So wonderful Margaret! Like the clear eyes of dad watching the Hawk. Happy to see the nest being build more secure too. |
Mrs_Ed
Whiteside County, IL (Zone 5a)
July 27, 2011 4:30 PM Post #8719467
| Wow, look at that light! |
unsteady
Perth
Australia
July 27, 2011 10:40 PM Post #8720247
| Margaret,
some beauties and sorry we didn't catchup at the WE. I was down both Sat and Sun and whilst the weather wasn't great the birds were fairly active. I was surprised at the rennovations, as you say the birds disappear so we may struggle to se the young when hatched!
There seems to be a pattern of dad fishing and ma waiting at the nest until he brings home the fish - she's fairly 'bossy' as well! I got some nice shots I'll post. One thing that was exciting is that dad was on his lower branch and then plunged straight down to recover a fish below the nest!! Obviously couldn't see the entry but he came up with a bream I think.
Preparations seem about a month ahead of schedule presently...but only when she's laid the eggs will we be able to determine whether this year they'll be early.
Pete |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
July 27, 2011 11:40 PM Post #8720277
| Hi Pete. I look forward to seeing your shots. The others here will be relieved to see you as well. It was beginning to look as if I really had pushed you over the cliff and nabbed your 500mm lens. The nest cup is being built much deeper, isn't it? The way you've described Big Hook is exactly what Madame X has said - bossy. It's bucketing down right now, so that leaves this afternoon out. |
Lily_love
Central, AL (Zone 7b)
July 28, 2011 8:32 AM Post #8720780
| LOL, Margaret, Pete; It was a private joke between Margaret, Marna and I, I think. lol Welcome back, I too looking forward to seeing your photos of the awesome Osprey family. |
ducbucln
Kelseyville, CA (Zone 8b)
July 28, 2011 10:01 AM Post #8720961
| Beautiful photos once again Margaret. I'm so hopeful that the deeper nest will help this family this year. |
unsteady
Perth
Australia
July 29, 2011 5:17 AM Post #8722551
| a couple of images from last WE when weather was very challenging with the light. the first depicts why Ma probably has every reason to demand some attention - not sure how I'd react with those talons on my back! 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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unsteady
Perth
Australia
July 29, 2011 5:21 AM Post #8722557
| Here is Big Hook making off with the fresh fish (very fresh caught beneath nest about 30 secs before!). Looks like dad got a bit before she took off. You can see he is just out of the water. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB (Zone 4a)
July 29, 2011 10:52 AM Post #8723200
| Pete, nice to hear from you, glad Margaret didn't push you off, with her talons on your lens. ;)
Great sharp images, on the action at the nest. Poor Dad,...he sure takes a beating sometimes ehh?
This message was edited Jul 29, 2011 1:53 PM |
pelletory
Marlton, NJ
July 29, 2011 11:57 AM Post #8723332
| Wonderful shots Pete! |
Lily_love
Central, AL (Zone 7b)
July 29, 2011 12:01 PM Post #8723338
| Hehehehe, great pictures of the 'couple' interaction with each other, Pete. |
ducbucln
Kelseyville, CA (Zone 8b)
July 29, 2011 2:15 PM Post #8723689
| Beautiful photos Pete!! Glad you're back too! |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
July 30, 2011 3:31 AM Post #8724720
| Wonderful shots, Pete. You're right about the weather being challenging (understatement of the year), but at least you went.
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Burd_Fotos
Sandusky, OH
August 1, 2011 11:29 PM Post #8731385
| Nice shots Margaret!! The Gorgeous Big Hook shot is stunning! Nice shots Pete! |
duckmother
North Little Rock, AR (Zone 7b)
August 3, 2011 11:19 AM Post #8734392
| Lovely pix, Pete! |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
August 5, 2011 7:16 PM Post #8739363
| Just a brief update. Nobody has seen or heard Whopper for a couple of weeks, so it looks as if she might finally have left home. Our weather hasn't been great for bird watching, but I went to the nest the day before yesterday. Dad and Big Hook were resting contentedly on the nest. We're expecting more rain this afternoon, but I'll pop down the inclement weather is delayed.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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bootandall
Blenheim
New Zealand
 August 5, 2011 11:59 PM Post #8739668
| Lovely to see that the 2011 season has started. Dad and Bighook are looking very smart. great photos. |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
August 6, 2011 12:05 AM Post #8739671
| Thanks, Boots.
I'm just about to head off to the nest. I'll update when I get back. I had an email from Madame X and she saw Whopper this morning. Whopper is now over 10 months old.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
August 6, 2011 4:48 AM Post #8739766
| Had the lighting been good this afternoon, I'd have more to show. However, it was lousy, so just a couple. Here's a shot of Dad and Big Hook. They not only chose a time when the nest was in full shadow, but also waited until the sun went behind clouds to mate. The nest is not unattended now and there are several identifiable offerings in the remake of the nest. What I did notice is that Big Hook's posture is different. She's standing more upright and with her body tilted slightly forwards - maybe she's "heavy with eggs". This is a shot of Dad as he was flying away from the nest.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
August 6, 2011 4:51 AM Post #8739767
| This should have been first. It may be a week before I manage to get down there next. It's not been a terribly good season for watching their courtship, mating and nest reconstruction, but that's OK, I'm sure there'll be interesting times ahead.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Mrs_Ed
Whiteside County, IL (Zone 5a)
August 6, 2011 6:45 AM Post #8739862
| OH! How adorable is that picture with them snoozing. |
Lily_love
Central, AL (Zone 7b)
August 6, 2011 7:21 AM Post #8739896
| So Whopper is off to college? lol Wonderful pics. Margaret. Dad and Big Hook are so in love! Hoping for a good year for the family this 'winter'. :) |
ducbucln
Kelseyville, CA (Zone 8b)
August 6, 2011 8:05 AM Post #8739936
| I do hope Whopper is enjoying her life and finding her perfect spot for the future.
Great shot of mom and dad together. Margaret, sorry the weather hasn't been better for you. Thanks for the great photos-love them. |
duckmother
North Little Rock, AR (Zone 7b)
August 6, 2011 8:08 AM Post #8739939
| Maybe they bought her a car to take to college, so she is not flying much ;o)) I hope they bought her a cell phone...don't want her parents to worry about her whereabouts! |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
August 17, 2011 10:31 PM Post #8762337
| I thought I'd better give an update. There has been very little activity. Believe it or not, Whopper is still around, although heard rather than seen. I might try to seek her out on the weekend.
I spent some time at the nest yesterday afternoon. No eggs have been laid yet, but Dad is spending his time "nesting". He really is in his element. Big Hook was on the right hand branch the entire time I was there, dozing and preening. Just a few shots because the lighting was so beautiful. With the sun shifting more to the west, the nest isn't in shadow for any length of time.
Dad on the nest.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
August 17, 2011 10:37 PM Post #8762340
| Big Hook contentedly preening 
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
August 17, 2011 10:39 PM Post #8762343
| ... 
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
August 17, 2011 10:40 PM Post #8762344
| Preening her throat feathers. 
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huggergirl
Columbia City, IN (Zone 5b)
August 18, 2011 3:44 AM Post #8762417
| Margaret ,Love the photos,ahh sun changing angles,here too ,in to Fall... |
GrannyGrunt
Mount Pleasant Mills, PA (Zone 5a)
August 18, 2011 4:20 AM Post #8762457
| Great shots Margaret. Just love that preening. She sure is getting all gussied up. LOL |
Mrs_Ed
Whiteside County, IL (Zone 5a)
August 18, 2011 5:56 AM Post #8762625
| Wow, that IS some good light. Fabulous pix; thanks for taking us on a trip again! |
duckmother
North Little Rock, AR (Zone 7b)
August 18, 2011 6:44 AM Post #8762755
| I could watch birds (especially ducks) preen for hours. I am not certain why...maybe because I can't ;o) Lovely pix, Mags! |
ducbucln
Kelseyville, CA (Zone 8b)
August 18, 2011 7:42 AM Post #8762859
| Doesn't matter if you can't see an egg yet Margaret-your photos are so crisp, sharp and exciting to see. Gorgeous preening shots! |
irisMA
South Hamilton, MA
August 18, 2011 12:47 PM Post #8763309
| We girls need to look good. |
burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB (Zone 4a)
August 18, 2011 3:10 PM Post #8763487
| Thanks for the update, Margaret. I needed my Osprey fix. :) Stunning shots!!! |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
August 20, 2011 6:01 AM Post #8765994
| Thanks, everyone. I actually saw Whopper yesterday afternoon. No photos, and of course I can't be absolutely certain it was her, but Dad and Big Hook's casual response to a juvenile flying, squawking, below the nest seems to point to it being her. We're expecting rain, but if the weather permits, I'll head along the low path tomorrow and see if I can locate whopper. it would be a thrill to see her, nearly 11 months later. |
bootandall
Blenheim
New Zealand
August 20, 2011 12:45 PM Post #8766695
| wonderful photos MargaretK, big hook looks ecstatic about the preening Hope you come across Whopper, would be great to see her now. |
nanny_56
Putnam County, IN (Zone 5b)
August 20, 2011 4:32 PM Post #8766993
| If there was just some way to be able to ID the ones we have watched grow up...*sigh* |
duckmother
North Little Rock, AR (Zone 7b)
August 20, 2011 6:02 PM Post #8767158
| We should knit little sweaters with their initial on it ;o)) |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
August 20, 2011 7:35 PM Post #8767595
| Hey, boots. Are you snowed in? I saw the footage on the news the other night. New Zealand sure has had a ghastly year.
It would be, nanny. It's a shame there's no Osprey banding programme at present.
LOL,Kim
This message was edited Aug 21, 2011 9:36 AM |
nanny_56
Putnam County, IN (Zone 5b)
August 21, 2011 7:44 AM Post #8768369
| I can see Whooper now with her big W on it!! lol |
bootandall
Blenheim
New Zealand
August 22, 2011 12:51 AM Post #8770121
| The snow only settled on the hills , A nice bit of excitement for Blenheim.we are still having frosts , but we got of lightly |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
August 22, 2011 10:47 PM Post #8772269
| I may have been wrong (it happened once before) about no eggs having been laid. Pete went to the nest on the weekend and is certain they were acting as if the egg/s have been laid. Madame X hasn't seen any mating for a couple of weeks and she believes they've been seriously sitting for almost as long. I'll go to the nest this afternoon, armed with every bit of heavy gear I have and view from a slightly higher point and see if I can see the egg/s. Unfortunately they've chosen to include what looks like a plastic bag in the nest cup. You should be able to see the white stuff in the nest, under Big Hook (at the front). The eggs are below and just on the other side of the plastic.
If I get anything exciting this afternoon, I'll start a new thread.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
August 23, 2011 5:46 AM Post #8772508
| I'll finish this thread off with a shot of Big Hook on the pole branch.
Here's a link to the new thread. http://davesgarden.com/community/forums/t/1215590/
This message was edited Aug 23, 2011 8:00 PM
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